Adronie Alford | Councillor for Munster, Hammersmith and Fulham

Councillor Adronie Alford

Conservative Munster Conservative Spokesperson for Housing

Positions, Voting Record & Activity Summary

Last updated: about 2 months ago

Councillor Adronie Alford has demonstrated a consistent and dedicated commitment to council service across her involvement, with a particularly intensified focus on housing and resident welfare in recent years. Her work has consistently revolved around ensuring accountability, advocating for vulnerable populations, and scrutinizing council finances and service delivery.

Key Themes and Priorities:

Across both years, Alford's primary concerns have centered on housing and homelessness, financial management, and resident welfare, particularly for leaseholders and older individuals. In 2025, her engagement in housing issues was extensive, covering rough sleeper support, void property recovery, temporary accommodation adequacy, and the specific needs of older residents in sheltered housing. She also delved into council tax policy for empty properties and the procurement of home care services.

Evolution of Focus:

While housing and financial scrutiny were present in 2024, Alford's 2025 activity shows a significant broadening and deepening of her engagement within these areas. The emphasis in 2025 shifted towards more granular details of housing provision, including the presentation of sheltered housing, downsizing options, and leaseholder costs related to council housing retrofits. Her advocacy for older residents became more pronounced, and her concerns about smart meter safety and college student homelessness were new additions. The latter half of 2025 also saw her address operational issues like garden waste service underperformance and declining parking income, indicating a wider scope of concern beyond core housing and finance.

Most Significant Contributions (Especially in Recent Years):

In 2025, Alford's most significant contributions lie in her persistent questioning and advocacy across a wide spectrum of housing-related issues. Her detailed inquiries into support for rough sleepers, the recovery of void properties, and the adequacy of temporary accommodation directly addressed critical needs. Her championing of older residents' needs, advocating for better presentation of sheltered housing and highlighting downsizing challenges, is a notable contribution. Furthermore, her consistent emphasis on receiving meeting materials in advance, stating,

it was more effective to receive papers in advance to prepare questions, rather than looking at a screen and taking notes during a presentation,

highlights her commitment to effective governance and preparation. Her representation of the Opposition on the H&F Private Rented Sector Policy also signifies a key role in shaping policy.

In 2024, her significant contributions included moving motions to protect leaseholders from inflated repair bills, exemplified by the Verulam House window replacement issue, and her consistent scrutiny of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) to ensure its financial stability.

Patterns and Consistent Areas of Interest:

A clear pattern is Alford's dedication to holding the council accountable. She consistently questions officers and administrations for clarity and transparency, driven by a desire to ensure residents feel heard and that council services are effective and financially sound. Her focus on vulnerable groups, whether it's those experiencing homelessness, older residents, or leaseholders facing financial burdens, is a recurring and strong theme. The importance of proactive preparation and informed decision-making is also a consistent thread, as evidenced by her repeated requests for advance meeting materials.

Yearly Activity Timeline

Throughout 2025, Councillor Adronie Alford was a consistently active participant in council meetings, with notable engagement across nine months. A primary focus of her contributions was housing and homelessness, where she repeatedly sought clarification on support for rough sleepers, the recovery of void properties, and the adequacy of temporary accommodation. Alford also championed the needs of older residents, advocating for a more appealing perception and presentation of sheltered housing, and highlighting challenges with downsizing options and housing association support. She consistently emphasized the importance of receiving meeting materials in advance for effective preparation, stating,

it was more effective to receive papers in advance to prepare questions, rather than looking at a screen and taking notes during a presentation.

Her concerns extended to the council tax policy for empty properties, the procurement of home care services, and the council housing retrofit strategy, particularly regarding leaseholder costs and consultation. Alford also raised safety concerns about smart meters and the support for college students experiencing homelessness. She represented the Opposition on the H&F Private Rented Sector Policy and spoke in remembrance of former councillors. Towards the end of the year, her focus broadened to include the underperformance of the garden waste service, declining parking income, and the strain on temporary accommodation, while also noting potential over-reliance on contractors.

Monthly Activity in 2025

During the December 8th, 2025 Cabinet meeting, Councillor Adronie Alford demonstrated active engagement by posing critical questions and voicing significant concerns. Her inquiries focused on several key areas: the underperformance of the garden waste service, speculating that pricing might be discouraging subscriptions; a decline in parking income, with worries that restrictions could be harming local businesses and leading to shop closures; and the substantial pressure on temporary accommodation, where she acknowledged staff efforts while questioning the council's strategy to manage the tremendous tide. Alford also highlighted a potential over-reliance on a limited number of contractors.

Meetings in December 2025

Cabinet - Monday, 8th December, 2025 7.00 pm - 8 December 2025

Councillor Adronie Alford actively participated in the meeting by asking several key questions and raising concerns. She inquired about the lower-than-expected income from the garden waste service, questioning if the pricing was a deterrent to subscriptions. Alford also sought an explanation for the reduced parking income, expressing worry that parking restrictions might be negatively impacting shoppers and contributing to shop closures. Furthermore, she addressed the significant strain on temporary accommodation, acknowledging staff efforts but questioning the council's strategy to manage the tremendous tide. Additionally, Alford raised concerns about the potential over-reliance on a small number of contractors.

During the November 5th, 2025 Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting, Councillor Adronie Alford was highly engaged, posing numerous questions and offering suggestions. Alford questioned the committee's operational transparency, including the absence of presentations and the rationale behind specific performance targets for repairs (e.g., 91% instead of 100%). They sought detailed breakdowns of tenant satisfaction data, particularly concerning TP03's 59% satisfaction rate, and inquired about improvements in housing repairs. Alford proposed rebranding sheltered housing to be more attractive to older residents and raised concerns about the suitability of current sites for older people's housing, suggesting alternative redevelopment locations. They also advocated for providing hard copies of sheltered schemes information. Alford explored the dynamics with housing associations regarding older residents, noting limited downsizing options and residents' desire to remain with their current associations. They expressed concern over delays in adapting units and contractors' lack of understanding in this area. Furthermore, Alford voiced apprehension about fragmented approaches to homelessness prevention and the high demand on homelessness services, highlighting competition for private rented accommodation. They inquired about the duration of stays in temporary accommodation and suggested revising terminology for longer-term placements, as well as the protocol for lost private rented sector tenancies offered as a main housing duty.

Meetings in November 2025

Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee - Wednesday, 5th November, 2025 7.00 pm - 5 November 2025

Councillor Adronie Alford was actively engaged in the Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting. They raised several critical questions regarding the committee's operations and performance. Alford inquired about the absence of a PowerPoint presentation and questioned the increase in damp and mould cases, as well as the rationale behind a 91% performance target for repairs instead of 100%. They also requested a more detailed breakdown of tenant satisfaction figures, specifically noting a 59% satisfaction rate for TP03, and sought clarification on new improvements in housing repairs. Alford suggested rebranding sheltered housing to be more appealing to older residents and highlighted concerns about the suitability of certain sites for older people's housing, proposing potential redevelopment locations. They also recommended providing hard copies of sheltered schemes information. Alford explored the relationship with housing associations concerning older residents, pointing out the limited options for downsizing and the preference of residents to stay with their current associations. They expressed concern over delays in adapting units and contractors' lack of understanding in this area. Furthermore, Alford voiced apprehension about siloed working in homelessness prevention and the significant number of individuals approaching the homelessness service, noting the competition for private rented accommodation between priority and non-priority need cases. They also asked about the typical length of stay in temporary accommodation and suggested revising terminology for longer-term placements, while also inquiring about the protocol for lost private rented sector tenancies offered as a main housing duty.

During October 2025, Councillor Adronie Alford was active in one council meeting. On October 22nd, she delivered a speech on behalf of the Opposition concerning Special Motion 1, which addressed the 150th anniversary of the Macbeth Centre.

Meetings in October 2025

Full Council - Wednesday, 22nd October, 2025 7.00 pm - 22 October 2025

During the Full Council meeting on October 22nd, 2025, Councillor Adronie Alford delivered a speech on behalf of the Opposition regarding Special Motion 1, which concerned the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Macbeth Centre.

During the July 24, 2025, Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting, Councillor Adronie Alford expressed frustration over the lack of a PowerPoint presentation for the Housing Repairs Update. Alford strongly advocated for a re-evaluation of how sheltered housing is perceived and presented, stating,

I think that sheltered housing does now give the wrong term implication, but I think one has to be extremely careful and very conscious of how to, and I hate the word rebrand, but to rethink as to how it is, I hate to say sold as well, but how it is given to people. It is not given very well, I don't think. I think it's a failing over all areas of sheltered housing because it does appear to some people, and forgive me for being crude, that it's somewhere older people are dumped. It should not be there. It should be somewhere that they should be keen to go to if they want to downsize, move into smaller properties. And we have to think on a broad way of how to make it an interesting and enjoyable prospect.

Alford also reminisced about a past practice of providing a comprehensive booklet detailing all sheltered schemes, lamenting its discontinuation and suggesting a return to such a format, noting,

What we used to do was when we used to have this marvellous booklet, it was beautiful, of setting out all our sheltered schemes, including what I call the Arms Houses, Hammersmith United, all of them. It was a wonderful booklet. We no longer do it. Now, I know it's on the internet, but when you are making a life change, which it will be to move into sheltered, you want time to sit down. You want to be able to look at something and browse it. Not, well, have a look on the internet. Yes, that gives you an idea, but that's something that people want to be able to sit and show and discuss with their families.

Furthermore, Alford inquired about the council's relationship with housing associations, highlighting a challenge where older residents of housing associations who wish to move to smaller, sheltered accommodations are not adequately supported by their current landlords, explaining,

The other point I would make and ask, what relationship are we having with housing associations? Because one of the problems I find is that when you have older residents of housing associations, a lot of them do have their own sheltered housing schemes. They make no match between people who are in their ordinary accommodation and wanting to go to a smaller accommodation. They're just not listened to.

Additionally, Alford raised safety concerns about smart meters, recounting a personal incident where a smart meter caught fire due to incorrect wiring. Finally, Alford expressed concern regarding the signposting and support for college students who are sofa surfing, particularly in receiving advice on college education or family services.

Meetings in July 2025

Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee - Thursday, 24th July, 2025 7.00 pm - 24 July 2025

During the Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting on July 24, 2025, Councillor Adronie Alford raised several important points and questions. Regarding the Housing Repairs Update, Councillor Alford expressed frustration at not receiving a PowerPoint presentation that was used during the update.

In the discussion about housing provision for people over 55, Councillor Alford advocated for a re-evaluation of how sheltered housing is perceived and presented. They stated:

I think that sheltered housing does now give the wrong term implication, but I think one has to be extremely careful and very conscious of how to, and I hate the word rebrand, but to rethink as to how it is, I hate to say sold as well, but how it is given to people. It is not given very well, I don't think. I think it's a failing over all areas of sheltered housing because it does appear to some people, and forgive me for being crude, that it's somewhere older people are dumped. It should not be there. It should be somewhere that they should be keen to go to if they want to downsize, move into smaller properties. And we have to think on a broad way of how to make it an interesting and enjoyable prospect.

Councillor Alford also reminisced about a previous practice of providing a comprehensive booklet detailing all sheltered schemes, lamenting its discontinuation and suggesting a return to such a format:

What we used to do was when we used to have this marvellous booklet, it was beautiful, of setting out all our sheltered schemes, including what I call the Arms Houses, Hammersmith United, all of them. It was a wonderful booklet. We no longer do it. Now, I know it's on the internet, but when you are making a life change, which it will be to move into sheltered, you want time to sit down. You want to be able to look at something and browse it. Not, well, have a look on the internet. Yes, that gives you an idea, but that's something that people want to be able to sit and show and discuss with their families. And I think we should look at way of giving some way of doing that, that people could actually sit down, look at it, say, well, I think this scheme looks nice. Oh, I don't think I fancy that scheme. Or didn't Mrs. So-and-so live in? You know, that they actually can see, they can see what the amenities are. We used to do this. We used to have this marvellous booklet, which covered all the shelter housing in the borough of all denomination, you know, that people could, where it was, what it had. And we, it was much more successful, shall we say, marketing and getting people interested. So I would make that.

Furthermore, Councillor Alford inquired about the council's relationship with housing associations, highlighting a challenge where older residents of housing associations who wish to move to smaller, sheltered accommodations are not adequately supported by their current landlords:

The other point I would make and ask, what relationship are we having with housing associations? Because one of the problems I find is that when you have older residents of housing associations, a lot of them do have their own sheltered housing schemes. They make no match between people who are in their ordinary accommodation and wanting to go to a smaller accommodation. They're just not listened to. So that is an avenue of work I would suggest that perhaps could be considered.

And elaborated on this issue:

What I find is, you know, you go and visit people, and because I've been involved in sheltered, and I'm always recommending, they can't seem to, they would quite like to stay with their own landlords. So housing association, like Dotting Hill does have sheltered. I know Shepherds Bush which isn't Shepherds Bush any longer, but can we just stick to the old terms? They also have their own shelter schemes. Residents who've been part of one housing association would quite like to stick with their own housing association because they know how it works, but they get no help to move from what is regular housing association accommodation. They're just sort of stonewalled to move into the sheltered. That is a sort of rather strange problem. Does that make sense?

Additionally, Councillor Alford raised safety concerns about smart meters, recounting a personal experience:

Councillor Alford raised safety concerns about smart meters and recalled a personal incident where the smart meter went into flames due to incorrectly wired in and shorted.

Finally, Councillor Alford expressed concern regarding the signposting and support for college students who are sofa surfing:

Councillor Adronie Alford was concerned about signposting the way forward for college students leaving sofa surfing, for example, receiving advice in respect of college education or family services.

During the June 16th, 2025 Cabinet meeting, Councillor Adronie Alford focused on the Council housing retrofit strategy. She raised concerns about the resident consultation process, especially for leaseholders, and emphasized the need for thorough cost investigations to avoid passing excessive charges to them. Alford specifically asked about the possibility of extended payment plans for leaseholders, akin to those for major works, and requested written information on this. She also followed up on a previously unanswered question and inquired about challenges in securing an alternative provider.

Meetings in June 2025

Cabinet - Monday, 16th June, 2025 7.00 pm - 16 June 2025

Councillor Adronie Alford raised several questions regarding the Council housing retrofit strategy. She specifically inquired about the consultation process with residents, particularly leaseholders, and stressed the importance of rigorously investigating costs to prevent excess charges being passed on to them. Alford requested written information on whether extended payment plans for leaseholders, similar to those for large major works, would be considered. She also noted that a written response to a previous question had not yet been received and asked about any particular difficulties in securing another provider.

During May 2025, Councillor Adronie Alford actively participated in council meetings. In the May 12th Cabinet meeting, she welcomed the balanced forecast for the Housing Revenue Account, stating, she would continue to scrutinize and monitor it closely. She also raised questions about the procurement strategy for home care services, specifically inquiring about challenges in finding another provider and if cost was a factor. Furthermore, Councillor Alford sought clarification on the appropriation of land at Hartop and Lannoy, confirming it would not affect local residents and that the land, formerly demolished houses, would revert to the HRA post-development. On May 21st, during the Annual Meeting of the Full Council, Councillor Alford contributed to the debate on the Revenue Budget and Council Tax Levels 2025/26 as part of the opposition's contributions.

Meetings in May 2025

Annual meeting, Full Council - Wednesday, 21st May, 2025 7.00 pm - 21 May 2025

During the Annual Meeting of the Full Council on May 21st, 2025, Councillor Adronie Alford spoke during the debate on the Revenue Budget and Council Tax Levels 2025/26. Alford was part of the opposition's contributions to this discussion.

Cabinet - Monday, 12th May, 2025 7.00 pm - 12 May 2025

Councillor Adronie Alford welcomed the news that the Housing Revenue Account was forecast to be balanced by the end of the year, stating she would continue to scrutinize and monitor it closely. She also asked questions regarding the procurement strategy for home care services, inquiring about difficulties in securing another provider and whether it was cost-related. Additionally, Councillor Alford sought clarification on the appropriation of land at Hartop and Lannoy, confirming that it would have no impact on local residents and that the land, previously demolished houses, would eventually be transferred back to the HRA after development.

During the April 23rd, 2025 Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting, Councillor Adronie Alford actively engaged by seeking clarification on funding discrepancies for community safety and social inclusion. She emphasized the value of receiving meeting materials in advance for better preparation, stating,

it was more effective to receive papers in advance to prepare questions, rather than looking at a screen and taking notes during a presentation.

Alford also brought attention to a service gap concerning a homeless resident's experience with temporary accommodation, questioning the distance of out-of-borough options. Additionally, she raised concerns regarding the compensation provided to residents for disrepairs.

Meetings in April 2025

Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee - Wednesday, 23rd April, 2025 7.00 pm - 23 April 2025

Councillor Adronie Alford sought clarification on a discrepancy in figures related to community safety and social inclusion funding, noting a difference between the report and the presentation. She also commented on the effectiveness of receiving papers in advance for preparation, stating, it was more effective to receive papers in advance to prepare questions, rather than looking at a screen and taking notes during a presentation. Later, Councillor Alford highlighted a service gap observed in a case where a resident felt lost after being declared homeless and was only notified of temporary accommodation a day before needing to move. She inquired about the distance of out-of-borough temporary accommodation. Finally, Councillor Alford raised a concern about the level of compensation for disrepairs payable to residents.

During February 2025, Councillor Adronie Alford actively participated in council meetings. In the meeting on February 10th, she sought assurance regarding the adequacy of the following year's budget for unforeseen circumstances and expressed satisfaction with the current year's HRA budget. She also raised a concern about the new council tax collection policy for empty properties, specifically its potential impact on families undergoing prolonged probate processes. At the Full Council budget meeting on February 26th, Alford spoke in remembrance of former councillors Sonya Hilton and Louanne Tranchell, and also represented the Opposition during the discussion of the H&F Private Rented Sector Policy.

Meetings in February 2025

Budget meeting, Full Council - Wednesday, 26th February, 2025 7.00 pm - 26 February 2025

During the Full Council budget meeting on February 26, 2025, Adronie Alford spoke in remembrance of former Conservative Councillor Sonya Hilton and former Labour Councillor Louanne Tranchell. Alford also spoke for the Opposition during the discussion of the H&F Private Rented Sector Policy.

Cabinet - Monday, 10th February, 2025 7.00 pm - 10 February 2025

Councillor Adronie Alford sought assurance regarding the adequacy of the following year's budget for unforeseen circumstances, while expressing satisfaction with the current year's HRA budget balancing despite the depletion of contingency funds. She also raised a concern about the new council tax collection policy for empty properties, specifically questioning the impact on families experiencing prolonged probate processes and whether they would face penalties if probate could not be secured within the one-year timeframe.

During January 2025, Councillor Adronie Alford engaged in several key activities. In a Full Council meeting on January 22nd, Councillor Alford delivered speeches of remembrance for former councillors Sonya Hilton and Louanne Tranchell. They also spoke on the H&F Private Rented Sector Policy from the Opposition's perspective. Later, at the Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting on January 27th, Councillor Alford focused on housing-related issues, inquiring about the reasons for individuals returning to rough sleeping after receiving support and seeking clarification on the timelines for recovering void properties.

Meetings in January 2025

Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee - Monday, 27th January, 2025 7.00 pm - 27 January 2025

During the Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting on January 27th, 2025, Councillor Adronie Alford inquired about the factors contributing to individuals returning to rough sleeping after receiving assistance to move towards long-term housing. Additionally, Councillor Alford sought clarification on the target completion dates for the recovery of void properties.

Full Council - Wednesday, 22nd January, 2025 7.00 pm - 22 January 2025

Councillor Adronie Alford delivered speeches of remembrance for former Conservative Councillor Sonya Hilton and former Labour Councillor Louanne Tranchell. Additionally, Councillor Alford spoke on the H&F Private Rented Sector Policy in their capacity as part of the Opposition.

Throughout 2024, Councillor Adronie Alford demonstrated consistent engagement in council meetings, with a strong focus on housing-related issues, financial management of council accounts, and tenant/leaseholder welfare. A recurring theme was her scrutiny of the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), where she repeatedly sought assurances about its balance and reserves, expressing concerns about potential depletion due to factors like increased homelessness pressures and repair costs. Alford was a vocal advocate for leaseholders, particularly highlighting instances of inflated repair bills, such as the significant charges for unnecessary window replacements at Verulam House, and moving motions to protect them.

She actively participated in discussions concerning contract terminations, budget proposals, and the effectiveness of council services, including refuse collection and housing repairs. Alford frequently questioned officers and administrations for clarity and accountability, citing past experiences where residents felt unheard. Her concerns extended to the financial implications of homelessness, the efficiency of temporary accommodation, and the potential negative impacts of new housing initiatives on local rental markets. Alford also contributed to discussions on broader council matters, including school attendance, infrastructure projects, and environmental policies like the Air Quality Action Plan.

Monthly Activity in 2024

During the December 16th, 2024 Cabinet meeting, Councillor Adronie Alford was present and actively engaged in discussions. She voiced opinions on the Air Quality Action Plan, suggesting >there should be some tolerance to motorists using their cars and control on the misuse of e-bikes. She also emphasized the importance of local neighbourhood consultation, especially regarding parking issues, before implementing changes. Councillor Alford raised concerns about the selection process for the Gas and Ancillaries Term-Service Contract, asking >how the Council would ensure that a good contractor would be selected following the tendering process. Furthermore, she inquired about the HRA budget and questioned the housing company regarding the >type and qualities of properties the housing company would be looking for, expressing worries about property suitability and potential rental market rate increases.

Meetings in December 2024

Cabinet - Monday, 16th December, 2024 7.00 pm - 16 December 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford was present at the meeting. Regarding the Air Quality Action Plan, Councillor Alford stated that there should be some tolerance to motorists using their cars and control on the misuse of e-bikes. She also inquired about local neighbourhood consultation, particularly on parking issues, before implementing changes. In relation to the Gas and Ancillaries Term-Service Contract, Councillor Alford asked how the Council would ensure that a good contractor would be selected following the tendering process. Concerning the Revenue Budget Review, she raised a question about the HRA budget. Additionally, Councillor Alford questioned the housing company about the type and qualities of properties the housing company would be looking for, expressing concerns about property suitability and potential rental market rate increases.

During November 2024, Councillor Adronie Alford actively participated in council meetings, raising a range of concerns and seeking clarification on several key issues. In the Cabinet meeting on November 4th, she questioned the property acquisition strategy and rental pricing of a proposed housing company, fearing negative impacts on local rents. Alford also inquired about the rate of unauthorized school attendance and the extent of delays on the Civic Campus scheme due to an accident. She also expressed concern for the elderly who might struggle with the cost of a new car.

In the Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting on November 12th, Councillor Alford voiced apprehension about unintended undesirable consequences stemming from officers' decisions, particularly regarding the placement of a homeless carer outside the borough. She highlighted technological barriers for landlords, noting that some landlords were still struggling with technology and that an online application was the only option available to landlords for licenses. Alford also raised issues with officer availability, stating she could not locate an officer for assistance on a case she considered very serious. Finally, she pointed out the low response rate to a consultation, observing that only 270 people had responded to a consultation relating to 30,000 private rented properties.

Meetings in November 2024

Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee - Tuesday, 12th November, 2024 7.00 pm - 12 November 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford raised several concerns during the meeting. She expressed worry that officers' decisions could lead to unintended undesirable consequences, citing the example of placing a homeless carer out of the borough, which would increase their expenses and negatively impact services to vulnerable residents.

Councillor Alford also highlighted potential barriers for landlords, noting that some landlords were still struggling with technology and that an online application was the only option available to landlords for licenses. Additionally, she inquired about officers' working hours post-COVID, stating she could not locate an officer for assistance on a case she considered very serious.

Finally, Councillor Alford voiced concern regarding the low response rate to a consultation, observing that only 270 people had responded to a consultation relating to 30,000 private rented properties.

Cabinet - Monday, 4th November, 2024 7.00 pm - 4 November 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford raised several questions during the meeting. She inquired about the types and qualities of properties a proposed housing company would seek, expressing concern that higher rental rates could negatively impact local rents. Alford also asked for the percentage of non-authorised attendance in schools within the borough. Additionally, she noted concerns regarding the elderly who might not be able to afford a new car and questioned the extent of the delay caused by an accident on site for the Civic Campus scheme.

During October 2024, Councillor Adronie Alford was active in two council meetings. In the Cabinet meeting on October 7th, Alford inquired about the percentage of non-authorized school attendance in the borough and the impact of an on-site accident on the delivery timeline of the Civic Campus scheme. In the Full Council meeting on October 17th, Alford spoke passionately about repair bills for leaseholders in council-owned properties, specifically mentioning Verulam House where leaseholders were charged significant amounts for unnecessary window replacements. Alford stated,

“This Council notes with concerns the repair bills charged to residents in Council-owned properties across the borough, including at Verulam House where leaseholders have received bills of up to £21,500 for replacement windows an independent surveyor deemed to be unnecessary. This Council vows to protect leasehold residents against being hit with inflated bills for works that aren't needed and calls upon the Administration to ensure fair treatment for Council leaseholders.”

Alford also provided a personal explanation and a closing speech during the debate on a related motion.

Meetings in October 2024

Full Council - Thursday, 17th October, 2024 7.00 pm - 17 October 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford spoke on Special Motion 4 concerning repair bills for leaseholders in council-owned properties. They highlighted concerns about inflated bills, citing the example of Verulam House where leaseholders received substantial charges for unnecessary window replacements. Alford stated,

“This Council notes with concerns the repair bills charged to residents in Council-owned properties across the borough, including at Verulam House where leaseholders have received bills of up to £21,500 for replacement windows an independent surveyor deemed to be unnecessary. This Council vows to protect leasehold residents against being hit with inflated bills for works that aren't needed and calls upon the Administration to ensure fair treatment for Council leaseholders.”

Councillor Alford also provided a point of personal explanation during the debate on an amendment to the motion and delivered a closing speech before the amended motion was voted upon.

Cabinet - Monday, 7th October, 2024 7.00 pm - 7 October 2024

During the Cabinet meeting on October 7th, 2024, Councillor Adronie Alford posed two questions. Firstly, concerning the School Attendance Strategy, she inquired about what the percentage in the borough of non-authorised attendance in schools was. Secondly, regarding the Civic Campus - Strategic Options report, Councillor Alford asked how much delay did the accident on site cause on the delivery of the scheme.

During the September 9th Cabinet meeting, Councillor Adronie Alford congratulated the Council on balancing the HRA but raised significant concerns about its future financial stability. She specifically pointed to potential issues if contingencies failed, ongoing repair problems, and described the HRA's situation as facing a large and undefined debt. Alford also expressed apprehension about the rising costs related to homelessness and temporary accommodation.

Meetings in September 2024

Cabinet - Monday, 9th September, 2024 7.00 pm - 9 September 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford congratulated the Council on balancing the HRA but expressed significant concerns about its future due to financial uncertainties. She specifically highlighted worries about the HRA's stability if contingencies failed, citing ongoing repair issues and describing the situation as a large and undefined debt coming out of the HRA. Furthermore, she voiced apprehension regarding the escalating costs associated with homelessness and temporary accommodation.

During July 2024, Councillor Adronie Alford was actively involved in council meetings, focusing on leaseholder rights and housing issues. In the July 10th Full Council meeting, she moved a special motion addressing concerns about inflated repair bills charged to leaseholders of council-owned properties, specifically citing an example at Verulam House where leaseholders faced substantial bills for unnecessary window replacements. Alford stated, > This Council notes with concerns the repair bills charged to residents in Council-owned properties across the borough, including at Verulam House where leaseholders have received bills of up to £21,500 for replacement windows an independent surveyor deemed to be unnecessary. This Council vows to protect leasehold residents against being hit with inflated bills for works that aren't needed and calls upon the Administration to ensure fair treatment for Council leaseholders. She also provided a point of personal explanation and a winding-up speech for the motion. In the July 23rd Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting, Councillor Alford expressed skepticism about the council's responsiveness to residents and the effectiveness of housing repair contractors, referencing unfulfilled past promises. She also sought specific details regarding the new depot's location, post-inspection job numbers, and compensation amounts.

Meetings in July 2024

Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee - Tuesday, 23rd July, 2024 7.00 pm - 23 July 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford expressed skepticism regarding the council's ability to listen to residents and implement improvements, citing ongoing complaints about unheeded concerns and incomplete contractor work. She recalled past promises from Cabinet Members about housing repairs contractors that were not fulfilled, leading her to doubt the effectiveness of future contractors. Councillor Alford also inquired about the location of the new depot, the number of jobs dedicated to post-inspections, and details regarding compensation amounts and outstanding lump sums.

Full Council - Wednesday, 10th July, 2024 7.00 pm - 10 July 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford moved a special motion concerning repair bills charged to leaseholders of council-owned properties, highlighting concerns about inflated costs for unnecessary works, such as those at Verulam House where leaseholders faced bills of up to £21,500 for replacement windows deemed unnecessary by an independent surveyor. Alford stated, > This Council notes with concerns the repair bills charged to residents in Council-owned properties across the borough, including at Verulam House where leaseholders have received bills of up to £21,500 for replacement windows an independent surveyor deemed to be unnecessary. This Council vows to protect leasehold residents against being hit with inflated bills for works that aren't needed and calls upon the Administration to ensure fair treatment for Council leaseholders. Councillor Alford also made a point of personal explanation regarding an amendment to the motion and delivered a winding-up speech before the amended motion was put to a vote.

During the June 3rd Cabinet meeting, Councillor Adronie Alford expressed concern regarding the effectiveness of refuse crews, noting instances where his front garden was left with refuse after collections. He stated,

on three occasions his front garden had been left with refuse that appeared to have been emptied out by the crews.

He also voiced his desire to prevent residents from receiving fixed penalties due to operative failures. Additionally, Councillor Alford inquired about the Old Laundry Yard Site Regeneration and Construction of 40 Affordable Homes report, receiving confirmation about two separate access routes on the site.

Meetings in June 2024

Cabinet - Monday, 3rd June, 2024 7.00 pm - 3 June 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford raised a concern about the effectiveness of refuse crews, stating that on three occasions his front garden had been left with refuse that appeared to have been emptied out by the crews. He expressed his desire to avoid residents receiving fixed penalties due to the failure of operatives.

He also asked a question regarding the Old Laundry Yard Site Regeneration and Construction of 40 Affordable Homes report. In response, Matt Rumble, Strategic Head of Area Regeneration, confirmed there would be two separate access routes on the site.

During May 2024, Councillor Adronie Alford actively participated in council meetings, raising concerns about the financial implications of increased homelessness on the General Revenue Account and the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), and inquiring about existing contingencies. She also sought clarification on access routes for the Old Laundry Yard Site Regeneration project. Furthermore, Alford delivered a speech regarding the Revenue Budget and Council Tax Levels 2024/25 report during the Annual Meeting of the Full Council and subsequently voted against its adoption.

Meetings in May 2024

Annual Meeting, Full Council - Wednesday, 22nd May, 2024 7.00 pm - 22 May 2024

During the Annual Meeting of the Full Council on May 22nd, 2024, Adronie Alford made a speech regarding the Revenue Budget and Council Tax Levels 2024/25 report. Alford subsequently voted against the adoption of this report.

Cabinet - Monday, 13th May, 2024 7.00 pm - 13 May 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford raised concerns about the impact of increased homelessness on the General Revenue Account and the Housing Revenue Account (HRA), inquiring about the contingencies in place for this pressure. She also asked a question regarding the Old Laundry Yard Site Regeneration and Construction of 40 Affordable Homes, specifically about the access routes for the site.

During April 2024, Councillor Adronie Alford, in his role as Conservative Spokesperson for Housing, expressed concerns regarding the Housing Revenue Account (HRA). He sought assurances that the HRA would remain balanced and that reserves would not be depleted, citing ongoing worries about unpredictable future events and the potential impact of increased homelessness pressures. Earlier in the same meeting, Councillor Alford commended the Council for terminating a contract with a company that had caused significant community problems.

Meetings in April 2024

Cabinet - Monday, 15th April, 2024 7.00 pm - 15 April 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford, in his capacity as Conservative Spokesperson for Housing, raised concerns about the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) and the potential impact of increased homelessness pressures on both the HRA and the general fund. He sought assurances that the HRA would balance and that reserves would not need to be utilized, expressing ongoing worry about unpredictable future events.

Earlier in the meeting, Councillor Alford had praised the Council for terminating a contract with a company that had caused significant community issues.

During March 2024, Councillor Adronie Alford was active in two council meetings, focusing on contract termination, budget management, and housing-related issues. In the March 4th meeting, she commended the Council for terminating a problematic contract and emphasized the importance of budget balancing, particularly for the housing revenue account. In the March 26th Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting, Councillor Alford raised significant concerns about the HRA budget, citing a lack of comprehensive papers and a decrease in reserves. She questioned specific financial provisions, including the arrears provision and leaseholder contributions. She also expressed concerns about the efficiency of temporary accommodation commissioning, the cessation of agency staff usage, and the challenges of managing residents' expectations when placed out of borough. Furthermore, she highlighted resident fears regarding cladding safety and questioned the necessity of new windows and the performance of new housing repairs contractors. Councillor Alford also inquired about the location of a new depot, compensation, and outstanding lump sums, reiterating past experiences of residents feeling unheard by officers and contractors.

Meetings in March 2024

Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee - Tuesday, 26th March, 2024 7.00 pm - 26 March 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford was present at the Housing and Homelessness Policy and Accountability Committee meeting. She raised significant concerns regarding the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) budget, noting a lack of comprehensive papers and a decrease in HRA general reserve balances. She questioned the provision for tenant arrears at 90% and the more than double increase in leaseholder contributions under the housing capital programme.

Councillor Alford also expressed concerns about the efficient commissioning of temporary accommodation and the cessation of agency staff usage, seeking details on achieved efficiencies. She highlighted the challenges in managing residents' expectations when they are placed out of the borough, particularly concerning medical needs and children's schooling. Furthermore, she inquired about the acquisition of housing for temporary accommodation and the enlargement of the housing portfolio.

Regarding major works, Councillor Alford emphasized the need for clear explanations and assurances about cladding safety due to resident fears, referencing the Grenfell Tower incident. She also questioned the necessity of new windows in properties after only 15 years and whether surveys had been conducted. She expressed a lack of faith in new housing repairs contractors, citing past poor performance and unfulfilled promises.

Councillor Alford also asked about the location of a new depot and the level of compensations and outstanding lump sums related to housing services. She reiterated her experience of hearing commitments to listen to residents in the past, but continuing to receive complaints about officers not listening and contractors not completing work.

Cabinet - Monday, 4th March, 2024 7.00 pm - 4 March 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford expressed satisfaction with the Council's decision to terminate a problematic contract, stating, The Council is to be commended for terminating the contract with the company that has caused so many problems in the community.

She also emphasized the importance of budget balancing, particularly concerning the housing revenue account, and thanked Councillor Ree for his assurances on this matter.

During February 2024, Councillor Adronie Alford was actively involved in council meetings, demonstrating support for exempting war widows and widowers from Council Tax and seeking assurances regarding the Housing Revenue Account's impact on reserves. A key action was moving a special motion on February 28th, calling on the Administration to urgently deal with the problems in the Housing Department and thereby improve the lives of tenants and leaseholders in the Borough. Alford also spoke on this motion and delivered a winding-up speech. Furthermore, Alford spoke during the Revenue Budget and Council Tax Levels 2024/25 discussion and voted against these proposals.

Meetings in February 2024

Budget Meeting, Full Council - Wednesday, 28th February, 2024 7.00 pm - 28 February 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford was active in the Budget Meeting, Full Council on February 28th, 2024. They moved a special motion concerning the Housing Department, stating: > The Council calls upon the Administration to urgently deal with the problems in the Housing Department and thereby improve the lives of tenants and leaseholders in the Borough. Alford spoke on this motion for the Opposition and also delivered a winding-up speech before the amended motion was voted on. Additionally, Alford spoke during the discussion on the Revenue Budget and Council Tax Levels 2024/25 and voted AGAINST these proposals.

Cabinet - Monday, 12th February, 2024 7.00 pm - 12 February 2024

Councillor Adronie Alford was present at the meeting. She expressed her full support for exempting war widows and widowers from Council Tax. Councillor Alford also sought reassurance that the Housing Revenue Account (HRA) would not deplete the entire Reserves fund, and was pleased with Councillor Ree's reassurance on this matter. In relation to property acquisition, Councillor Alford inquired about the timescale, and Councillor Jones indicated it would be short, potentially by May or June of the current year.